Revolut has announced the introduction of a “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) service for its credit card customers, enabling them to repay purchases in fixed instalments. The feature allows Revolut cardholders to divide their repayments over three, six, nine, or 12 months, with interest rates set at 9.5 per cent (9.98 per cent APR). It … Read more
A new pilot scheme is set to transform rural transport in Ireland by introducing an app-based booking system for Local Link bus services, allowing residents to schedule pickups from their homes or local towns. The innovative service will operate similarly to popular taxi-hailing apps like FreeNow, bringing modern convenience to rural public transport. Under the … Read more
Ireland’s newly announced transport security force will likely operate with powers similar to airport police and customs officers, though exact details of their authority remain unclear, according to security sources. The incoming government’s plan, revealed in their draft Programme for Government, aims to create a specialized force under the National Transport Authority to enhance safety … Read more
International drug gangs have implemented a sophisticated new smuggling system along Ireland’s coast, with intelligence suggesting up to a tonne of drugs from a suspected ‘mothership’ off Kerry has already left the country. The complex operation uses a “cell structure” where separate teams operate independently, communicating only through encrypted channels with external controllers. The system, … Read more
Fuel prices in Ireland have risen for the third month in a row, adding financial pressure on motorists as crude oil costs climb to a six-month high. The ongoing increases reflect a challenging trend for drivers grappling with higher expenses at the pump. According to the January AA Ireland Fuel Survey, petrol prices rose by … Read more
Professional job openings in Ireland decreased significantly by 14.6% in the final quarter of 2024, as global economic uncertainties led companies, particularly multinationals, to adopt a more cautious approach to hiring. This was highlighted in the latest employment monitor released by recruitment agency Morgan McKinley, covering the period from October to December 2024. Despite the … Read more
The winter flu season continues to pose significant challenges for Ireland’s healthcare system, with officials reporting 56 flu-related deaths so far this winter amid “very high” infection levels throughout the country. The severe flu situation is compounding problems in Irish hospitals, which are already struggling with significant overcrowding issues. This combination of high flu transmission … Read more
Killarney National Park is facing significant challenges from invasive species, with experts and officials disagreeing over the effectiveness of current control measures despite quadrupled spending on management efforts. Key developments: NPWS spent over €4.3m on invasive species management nationwide (2020-2024) Rhododendron control spending in Killarney increased from €254k to €1.08m since 2017 286 deer culled … Read more
A targeted 24-hour Garda operation has caught 266 motorists using their phones while driving, representing more than four times the daily average for phone-related driving offences in 2024. Key findings from the operation: 266 drivers detected between 7am yesterday and 7am today Significant increase from 2024’s daily average of 60 detections Each offense carries a … Read more
Ryanair has reiterated its appeal for airport bars to limit passengers to two alcoholic drinks, arguing that such a measure would ensure “a safer travel experience for passengers and crews.” The airline believes excessive drinking before flights is a significant factor contributing to disruptive behavior onboard. This renewed call comes as Ryanair steps up its … Read more
Mortgage rates in Ireland are set to fall below 3 per cent by the end of the year, bringing relief to homebuyers, Irish Independent reported. However, savers have been warned of a downside to the declining rates, as returns on savings accounts are expected to drop significantly in the coming months. The latest figures from … Read more
Children’s advocacy groups are urging the incoming Irish government to dedicate the €13 billion Apple tax payment to tackle rising child poverty, following a new ESRI report highlighting concerning poverty rates among Irish children. The Children’s Rights Alliance and Community Foundation Ireland have called for the tax windfall to be ringfenced specifically for investments in … Read more
Ireland’s inflation rate has begun to climb again, according to the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO). The consumer price index reveals a 1.4 per cent increase in the cost of living over the 12 months to December 2024. This marks a sharp rise from the 0.7 per cent inflation recorded in September … Read more
A government audit has revealed significant cost overruns totaling €39.4 million across four Dublin City Council “rapid-build” housing projects, prompting demands for accountability from local councillors. Key findings from the audit: Original combined budget of €88.5M rose to €127.5M Projects delivered 263 homes across four locations Consultancy fees exceeded original estimates by up to 93% … Read more
Ferry services between Ireland and Holyhead have finally resumed today after weeks of closure due to damage from Storm Darragh, bringing relief to hauliers and travelers despite ongoing operational challenges. While only Terminal 5 berth has reopened, Stena Line reports it can maintain pre-closure service levels. However, Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) president Ger Hyland … Read more